I’m over the moon over our GB calls

Sep 13 2008 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

GIANTS caretaker coach Paul Anderson is ‘over the moon’ that Martin Aspinwall and David Hodgson have been named in the initial England World Cup squad.

Both wingers have suffered horrendously on the injury front over the past 12 months.

But their form in the second half of the season since recovering from major knee operations has been good enough to earn them calls to former Giants chief Tony Smith’s national squad, along with in-form Huddersfield prop Darrell Griffin, whose consistent form throughout the season has been exceptional.

And former Great Britain prop Anderson is absolutely delighted his two pacy backs have gained England recognition, despite such painful years.

“I was thrilled when Darrell got the nod, although I wasn’t in the least bit surprised,” said Anderson.

“And I think it’s fair to say I was over the moon for Aspy and Hodgy.

“No-one has ever doubted their ability, the main problem was whether they had enough time to prove their fitness following their returns. Everyone at the Giants thought they had, and now Tony Smith has backed up what we thought.